Welcome to CriminalJusticeDegree.com. This site was created to help students find and research criminal justice degree programs. Our blog, authored by Kathyrn Loving, a former peace officer, provides updates and insights related to the criminal justice field. Through extensive research, we have compiled a list of accredited programs designed to enhance job skills and improve career opportunities. To learn more about your options, you can click on each section below for a detailed overview.

Degrees in Criminal Justice

Criminal justice degrees are very versatile and can open new career opportunities in a variety of related fields. It is important to note that curriculum can vary greatly from school to school. It is essential, therefore, to find out as much as possible about each program before applying. Considerations when choosing a degree include:

Degree program length and options (online or campus)

Subject focus of the program such as forensics, criminal justice, homeland security, etc.

Career Options with a Degree in Criminal Justice

For graduates with a degree in criminal justice or a related field, exciting job opportunities await. Graduates often pursue careers in corrections, court systems, law enforcement, homeland security, and a variety of other fields. Others choose to further their education by attending law school or continue their training to work for the FBI, CIA, or the Secret Service. Below you’ll find the most popular career paths for graduates in this field:

Online Learning: An Overview

Online programs are an accessible, flexible resource that can help you meet goals such as gaining new skills, obtaining a degree, or advancing your career. They offer an education similar to that you’d receive as an on-campus student; however, there are differences between online and on-campus degree programs that should be mentioned. Below you’ll find a helpful chart that compares the two options:

Online Programs:

Campus Programs:

Accreditation

Many online programs are accredited by the same national and regional accreditors that recognize brick-and-mortar schools with the addition of speciality accreditors of distance education institutions.

Campus programs are typically accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and regional accreditors such as Middle States Commission on Higher Education or North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Scheduling Classes

Online programs typically you to schedule your classes at times that best suit your schedule and learning style.

Campus programs typically have set times for classes that follow a semester or trimester system.

Assignments and exams can usually be completed at any time on the assigned due date via the university’s instructional web site.

Assignments and exams are typically completed or submitted at the classes scheduled time in person.

Peer Interaction

Assignments and lectures are completed independently, but discussions are held among fellow classmates in a forum-like environment.

Some classes assign team projects; students can organize themselves into study groups for exams and lectures.

Textbooks and Required Materials

A computer and internet connection is a must. Most classes do not require special software outside of a word processor and slideshow viewer. Textbooks are often, but not always, required.

Textbooks are typically required for courses; other materials are often available at a campus library or learning center.

Online programs are becoming increasingly more popular among today’s students. According to the National Center for Education Statistics there were over 5.5 million students in the United States that enrolled in distance learning programs in 2013 alone.

Affording an Education in Criminal Justice

If the cost of attending college is greater than what you can afford, there are resources available to help offset the cost. You can apply for financial aid in the form of grants, student loans, work study, and scholarships.

It’s important to know the difference between all the kinds of available aid and how to apply for it. Below you’ll find more information about each form and where to locate credible resources on the web:

Type of Aid:

Overview:

Additional Resources:

Grants

A form of financial aid based on need or other criteria, such as academic merit athletic abilities, and do not have to be repaid.